The temperature inside a car can rise much more quickly than the outdoor temperature. This is true in a closed car, or even one with an open window. Research shows a car’s interior temperature can rise nearly 20 degrees in 10 minutes. Also, a child’s temperature rises faster than an adult’s. A child can suffer permanent brain or organ damage or die within minutes of being left in a hot car.

A child can lean on an automatic window switch and close the window. This can catch his or her head and neck in the window and strangle the child.

If keys are left in the car, the child can start the engine. The car might run over people or crash. Even without keys, the child might shift gears or release the emergency brake, causing the car to roll.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas emitted from idling car engines that could easily sicken children or even cause death.

• Never leave your child alone in a car, even for a minute.
• Never leave the engine on with your car idling in the garage, even when your intent is to run into the house for just 1 minute. Always turn the engine off when exiting the car.
• Always lock your car when you leave it, even in the garage. This prevents children from getting inside.
• Teach your child that the car is not a toy. It is only for riding in with an adult.
• Give yourself reminders that a child is in the backseat. For instance, put the diaper bag in the front seat, or put your purse in the back seat.
• Use drive-through services whenever possible, such as at banks and pharmacies. That way you don’t have to get out of the car.
• If a child is locked in a car, get him or her out right away. Call 911 for help if needed. Call 911 immediately if the child looks flushed or listless.

• Take a 5-second walk completely around your car before you get in. This lets you see children playing behind or in front of the car.
• When backing out of a garage or driveway, know where your children are. Have them stand in a place where you can see them clearly. Or, have another adult tell you where the kids are.
• Roll down your window so you can hear what’s happening around your car.
• Back your car out slowly.

• Instruct your kids to move away from a vehicle whenever it is started. And teach them how to recognize when a vehicle is on. For instance, tell them to look for things such as brake lights, white lights for backing up, and engine noise.
• If possible, keep children from playing in the driveway or front yard. Instead, have them play in a fenced-in backyard or park. If a child does play in the front yard, make sure he or she is supervised by an adult.
• Hold your child’s hand when walking with your child near cars. Do this in places such as parking lots, driveways, and on sidewalks.